Sir Syed Express Train Suspended Due Revenue Decline
The move is expected to impact passengers who relied on the Sir Syed Express, but the resumption of the Shah Hussain Express and the operation of special trains for Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's Urs will provide alternative options, as Pakistan Railways continues to work towards improving its services through privatization and efficient management.
Pakistan Railways has suspended the Sir Syed Express train service due to declining revenue, as the private firm operating it, M/s Ras Logistics, refused to continue operations, citing a decline in revenue after the announcement of Shah Hussain Express on the same route.
The suspension of the Sir Syed Express is part of Pakistan Railways' plan to privatize seven passenger trains through an open bidding process. The trains to be privatized include Karachi Express, Farid Express, Bahauddin Zakariya Express, Sukkur Express, Mohenjo Daro Express, and Rawalpindi Passenger train. The Sir Syed Express, which was reinstated in September 2024 under a public-private partnership, offered various amenities, including AC sleeper and business coaches, food services, free Wi-Fi, and mobile ticketing.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways has resumed the Shah Hussain Express service between Karachi and Lahore, providing relief to passengers. The train has 24 coaches and will run twice a day. Additionally, Pakistan Railways will operate two special trains for Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's annual Urs at Sehwan Sharif, ensuring convenient travel for devotees.
The suspension of the Sir Syed Express train service is effective from February 24, 2025, and passengers are advised to explore alternative options, including the newly resumed Shah Hussain Express. Pakistan Railways' efforts to privatize and improve its services aim to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers, and the resumption of the Shah Hussain Express is a step in this direction.
